The Club of Queer Trades centers on the discovery of an exclusive, eccentric society whose members must invent a unique and original profession to gain entry. The protagonist, Basil Grant, and his companions navigate the peculiar social landscape of London to investigate the bizarre activities of these individuals. The narrative framework utilizes a series of interconnected short stories, often presented through the perspective of an inquisitive observer. The world is defined by a whimsical, slightly surreal version of Edwardian London where the mundane and the absurd coexist within the architecture of the city.

Readers frequently highlight the whimsical and inventive nature of the stories, noting that the author prioritizes intellectual playfulness over traditional suspense. Discussion often centers on the unique premise of the club, which serves as a vehicle for the author to critique the rigid expectations of professional identity. Critics often point to the balance between the lighthearted tone and the underlying philosophical questions regarding human creativity. The pacing is generally described as leisurely, allowing for the development of the author's signature paradoxical style. Many readers appreciate the atmospheric setting, which transforms the city into a stage for these peculiar social experiments.